QT diff guard = cant fit aftermarket drag link?

[scottjal]

I rather like the idea of the QT diff guard wrapping around and protecting the U joint but some old posts here mentioned it interferes with big replacement drag links like the RTE? Is that true? Have most found that the extra wrap around to the U joint is unnecessary like just about every other diff guard I look at?

 

[rdoane]

If you go with an over sized tie rod, say ~1.5" diameter, it will hit the guard. Get a RTE weld on diffguard and HD steering and be done.

 

[barshnik]

My front QT was a tight fit putting it back on after installing the big whomper RTE track rod, but it clears by 1/32" or so.

John F
LV, NV

 

[scottjal]

Hmm, that is specifically what I was thinking of doing with the RTE rod. Maybe close enough to clear comfortably with some grinding? Does that clang and make a lot of noise or does it not hit at all?

 

[barshnik]

Hmm, that is specifically what I was thinking of doing with the RTE rod. Maybe close enough to clear comfortably with some grinding? Does that clang and make a lot of noise or does it not hit at all?

You just made me crawl under the D2. On the drivers side, the HD RTE track rod clears the QT by 1/32". On the passenger side of the QT, it clears by a paper-width. I've never heard any noise, so assume it is OK.

At least I know that if I hit a rock again, there will not be enough play before contacting the diff guard to do any rear-ward damage to the track rod (as if that thing would bend anyway...)

John F
LV, NV
2001 D2

 

[Bender]

Anyone know how the Rockware rod diameter compares to the RTE? Bought the RW a few weeks ago and haven't put it on yet... Totally guessing and pulling this out my ass, but based on the pics on the RTE site I'd say they are similar in size.

Perhaps I'll finally get around to putting it on this weekend and will find the answer then... The QT diff guard will have priority of place.

It always amazes me how random threads pop up on DWeb that are timely to little jobs I have planned or am undertaking at the moment.

 

[davidz]

I have been looking into this also, i was eyeing the rockware off set tie rod, that has the bend it for extra clearance, my concern also is clearance with my QT front diff guard. her eis a photo off the RockWare site


it looks like they are using a guard similar to the QT but the picture is poor quality,
but some one said the RTE clears it, so this one, should as well, maybe?

It would be nice if somone has actually done this, and can tell us, yea or nay,
no lemmings please:rofl: